When the holiday season rolls around, it’s all about making memories—and what better way to create those than with a batch of Granny Mabel’s Bar Cookies? This treasured recipe has been passed down for generations, bringing families together with its irresistible layers of caramel, chocolate, and oats. It’s the perfect treat to bake for cozy gatherings, festive parties, or as a heartfelt edible gift.
Why Granny Mabel’s Bar Cookies Are So Special
Granny Mabel’s recipe is more than just a cookie; it’s a holiday tradition. What makes these bar cookies truly unique is their combination of buttery oats, gooey caramel, and rich chocolate chips. Every bite is soft, chewy, and packed with flavors that feel like a warm hug during the chilly winter months. Whether you’re baking them for family or friends, they’re sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to recreate Granny Mabel’s magic:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 ½ cups brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 ½ cups melted butter
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 (12-ounce) jar caramel ice cream topping
- 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Feel free to experiment with substitutions like dark chocolate chips, vegan caramel, or even a sprinkle of sea salt for a sweet-and-savory twist.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps for the perfect bar cookies:
- Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Make the Crust: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, salt, and baking soda. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture is evenly combined. Press half of the mixture into the prepared pan to form the base.
- Bake the Base: Bake the crust for 10 minutes until lightly toasted. Remove from the oven and sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the base. Let them melt slightly.
- Add the Caramel Layer: In a small bowl, mix the caramel topping with 6 tablespoons of flour. Drizzle the caramel mixture evenly over the chocolate layer.
- Top It Off: Sprinkle the remaining crust mixture over the caramel layer and gently press it down.
- Final Bake: Return the pan to the oven and bake for 15 minutes. Let the bars cool completely before cutting into squares.
Baking Tips from Granny Mabel
- Pre-toast the oats: This adds an extra nutty flavor to the crust.
- Line your pan with parchment paper: This makes it easier to lift out the bars and ensures clean cuts.
- Cool completely: Patience is key to getting perfectly shaped bars without crumbling.
Variations to Try
While the classic version is unbeatable, you can always add your own festive twists:
- Peppermint Magic: Swap the chocolate chips for white chocolate and add crushed candy canes.
- Cranberry Bliss: Mix dried cranberries into the crust for a tangy burst of flavor.
- Gluten-Free Alternative: Use gluten-free oats and a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Serving and Storing
Granny Mabel’s Bar Cookies are perfect on their own, but pairing them with a glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream takes them to the next level. Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Planning ahead? Freeze them in layers separated by parchment paper for up to a month.
Why These Bar Cookies Are Perfect for the Holidays
There’s something magical about the simplicity of Granny Mabel’s Bar Cookies. They’re quick to make, use pantry staples, and are always a crowd-pleaser. Wrap them in festive boxes or tins, and you’ve got a heartfelt homemade gift that everyone will love.
So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let Granny Mabel’s Bar Cookies bring a little extra joy to your holiday season. Don’t forget to share your creations and memories—after all, that’s what the holidays are all about!
